Daytripping to Rowayton ought to become your next holiday tradition
The only thing that can match the view from the Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood (above) is the menu of fresh fish favorites (below). – Photography: courtesy of brands/stores
We love spending relaxed time with visiting friends and family, but there’s a moment when we roust them from screens large and small, and corral them into the car. Getting out of the house is also a holiday tradition. Fresh air, new sights and local flavor invigorate the crew—and justify sinking back into the sofa once back home.
Our favorite place to take guests is Rowayton, the epitome of coastal New England. It offers it all: a waterfront park, a charming main street, an art gallery, food markets, cafés and restaurants.
The Rowayton Arts Center (RAC) hosts exhibits in their gallery, and offers interesting gifts for sale. Book a tour to learn about the history of the artists in the area—and add a custom art activity in the second floor studio space. rowaytonarts.org
Arden’s is a bright, contemporary café, with cheerful blue-and-white cushions and blonde wood tables. Open from 8 a.m. to early afternoon, Arden’s serves breakfasts, toasts (the lemony avocado is our favorite), salads (grilled artichoke and cannellini beans, so good), sandwiches, baked goods and great coffee. It’s kid-friendly (and just plain friendly). We could hang here for hours. ardensrowayton.com
We love the Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood so much it’s hard to put into words, but here goes: the views of the river! The understated nautical atmosphere and cozy fireplace! The stellar service! The phenomenal freshness of the food! Most of all we love the menu, and heartily recommend the Barramundi Milanese in lemon caper butter sauce (it’s the most popular dish in the lineup for a reason).
Afterwards, we stop into the market for fresh fish, prepared foods, chowder, pantry items and some Rowayton Seafood Market souvenir swag rowaytonseafood.com
Note: Parking in Rowayton is tight and timed. Pinkney Park and Rowayton Ave. have minimal spots. The easiest is valet parking at The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood.
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